The New South Wales Maritime department has just release a paper for public comment, regarding Boating Safety on the Murray River.

"Keeping people safe on our waterways is paramount." Minister for Ports &Waterways Paul McLeay assures us in his opening address that "it is the most important part of my responsibilities as Minister for Waterways."

I'm sure all of you would agree, after the handful of boating disasters last year, action needs to be taken to prevent any more lethal accidents from occurring on our waterways.

But what preventative actions should be taken? There are a few obvious ones that come to mind, and they, like most things in this world, are about knowledge, experience and responsibility.

"It is our opportunity to make the Murray region a safer place for all waterway users. I encourage everyone with an interest in the area to read the facts, consider the solution and work together to make the Murray a fun, safe and responsible place to be on the water." says McLeay

I concur! I urge everyone to read over this report. Firstly, you will learn some background information including findings and summarised goals. Further reading gets you more into the thick of it - a list of categories - "key boating safety management issues identified". These items are as follows.

Speed limits

Zoning

Towing

Compliance and enforcement

Licensing and education

Vessel fires

Following is a list of the "options for change raised through the consultation process".

This is where it gets a little more specific. And damaging. The list is long, varied and contains phrases like: "maximum ski rope length", "no added weight rule to control wake" and "ban wake assisting devices e.g. "fat sacks and "power wedges".

Naturally, my heart sank at the site of these points. Fortunately the report goes on to explain how the NSW Maritime wants to hear 'our' voice in regards to these matters. And so they should - I dare say the Honorable Paul McLeay knows little about wakeboarding, but has a right to know.

So check out the downloadable review and share your thoughts with the NSW Maritime before the 13th of July to have your say. -Ed